Engineer II (Structures)

Job Description:

As a Structural analysis engineer, you will own and drive the structural simulation workflows for our innovative Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). In this role, you will lead component- and system-level Finite Element Analysis (FEA), validate complex models against physical testing, and mentor junior engineering team members. You will collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams to ensure the structural integrity, safety, weight efficiency, and regulatory compliance of our UAS products from concept through certification.

Key Responsibilities

Structural Analysis & Simulation

Own end-to-end structural analysis tasks, performing sizing calculations and advanced FEA to evaluate static strength, dynamic response, stability, fatigue life, and safety margins. Analyze FEA results to identify design modifications that support structural optimization, weight reduction, and durability. Assist in developing and validating simulation methodologies, focusing on correlation between numerical models and physical test data. Support failure mode evaluations to identify structural vulnerabilities and recommend design improvements. Follow established quality and reliability standards for structural analysis processes to maintain simulation accuracy.

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Review

Work closely with design, manufacturing, materials, and aerodynamics teams to integrate simulation feedback into the product development process. Participate in design reviews, presenting structural analysis observations, findings, and design recommendations to cross-functional teams. Prepare clear technical analysis reports and maintain organized documentation to support project deliverables and certification efforts. Guide, mentor, and review the work of junior team members, fostering their technical development in FEA best practices, meshing, and failure criteria.

Industry Standards & Regulatory Compliance

Apply and maintain a foundational understanding of relevant aerospace, composite, and safety standards:

Aerospace & UAS Integrity: ASTM F3322 (sUAS Design & Manufacture), FAA Part 107 regulatory compliance. Composite Materials & Testing: MIL-HDBK-17 (Polymer Matrix Composites guidance), ISO 14955 (Static & Fatigue Testing). System Safety & Processes: ARP4761 (Safety Assessment Process for Civil Airborne Systems). Technical Documentation & Design: Applicable ISO drawing and CAD exchange standards (e.g., ISO 10209).

Qualifications & Technical Skills

Master''s/Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field with 3-6 years of relevant experience. Analysis Expertise: Solid theoretical foundation and practical coursework/project experience in Finite Element Analysis (FEA), stress analysis, structural mechanics, vibration. Software Proficiency: Hands-on experience with industry-standard FEA software (Ansys and Altair Radioss preferred). CAD Capabilities: Familiarity with 3D CAD platforms for model preparation, cleanup, and meshing. Materials & Design: Understanding of aerospace materials (particularly composites and lightweight alloys) and general UAS structural design and manufacturing principles. Automation & Scripting: Basic exposure to Python or MATLAB for automating routine analysis tasks or data processing. Product Development Knowledge: Hands-on experience across the full UAS lifecycle, including design reviews (PDR/CDR), DFM for lightweight structures, and testing-backed hardware iteration is preferred. Soft Skills: Effective communication, strong problem-solving abilities, and a collaborative team mindset.

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